College can be a significantly difficult experience, academically and personally, so it’s best to start your semester off on the right foot. It’s important to make sure that you have the best experience possible, but figuring out how to do that can be tricky. These 15 tips are a sure way to have the best spring semester possible, both academically and socially!
- Do an early spring cleaning
Getting organized can be as simple as clearing out your desk drawer or making a list of priorities for the semester. Making sure that you have everything in its place will make starting the semester less stressful and will aid in your transition to new classes. - Reassess your limits
As a student, it’s essential that you ensure you’re not being pulled in a million different directions. Take time to slow down and look at your class load along with what extracurriculars or employment you are partaking in. Sometimes, your schedule can get to be too much and add a lot of unneeded stress. - “Audition” for your professors
It’s crucial to make sure that your professors see you in a good light for the future. Start strong by being prepared for class, doing the work assigned, and asking questions or participating in class discussions. - Adjust your attitude
The way you view your situation is important when affecting the outcome. It is best to go into the semester with a positive attitude and an outlook that will attract your desired results. - Control your spending
Sometimes it is hard not to buy things, especially when all your friends are doing it, but it’s important to learn money management skills and to remember that if you don’t need it, maybe you shouldn’t buy it. This is especially true at a time when—for many students—money is tight. - Address your “weak points”
Make sure you know your academic strengths and weaknesses. Once you’ve decided what they are, make a plan to work on strengthening your weaknesses and continue improving your strengths. - Treat college like a “real” job.
Remember that what you learn at college are things you will need in the future, and people that you meet here are people who you may work with. The best approach is to make sure you are professional, courteous, and serious about your studies and social arrangements so that you are set for the future. - Befriend a professor
Many times, the most valuable advice, lessons, and friendships come from those teaching you. Make sure you talk to your professors and establish a positive relationship with them. This may help you out in the long run, especially after graduation, as well as motivate you to do well in the class. - Move outside your comfort zone
Though it can be nice to stick with what you know, the best outcomes often are from trying new things, going to new places, and meeting new people. Being a homebody may be easier, but trying out new things may help you make memories, friends, and business connections. - Don’t be afraid to ask questions
It may be momentarily embarrassing, but it is better to get it over with and ask a question than it is to shy away from questions and not have enough information on a topic. After all, the saying goes, “Ask a question and you’re a fool for a minute, don’t ask a question, and you’re a fool for a lifetime.” - Practice self-care
It’s crucial that, along with homework and sports, you take care of yourself. Your health, both mental and physical, is key to your well-being, academically and otherwise. Make sure that you take breaks, eat, shower, and, most importantly, sleep. - Make a routine
Getting into a routine can make it easier to do difficult tasks such as studying, applying for jobs, or juggling clubs. Look at your schedule and set a designated time for important tasks, including time off and self-care. - Go to class
As boring as the gen-eds or major-required classes can be, they are important. By going to class, you can help yourself pass the class in the future, and you will have a better understanding of the material. It also demonstrates to your professors that you value the time and energy they’ve put into the class and that you are willing to put in the work to do well. And who knows, maybe you’ll end up liking the class or topic after all! - Learn available resources
There are multiple places and things you can do to better your education both on and off campus. The Center for Student Success, Center for Career Development, and Department of Disability Services (DDS) are all examples of on campus resources that can be used to help you with your classes and with the stress of the semester. - Lighten up
College can be stressful and hard, but it’s also important to remember to have fun! Go out with your friends, take a train into the city, or join a club. It’s okay to slow down sometimes. Remember, where you are does not always determine where you will end up in the future.
Though these tips are not guaranteed success this semester, they sure are a great start to ensuring you make the most out of your time.
